§ 8-6. City Tax Sale Ombudsman.

(a) "Homeowner" defined.

In this section, "homeowner" has the meaning stated in State Tax-Property Article § 9-105 {"Homestead tax credit"}.

(b) In general.

(1) There is a City Tax Sale Ombudsman in the Department of Housing and Community Development.

(2) The Ombudsman shall:

(i) be designated by the Commissioner of the Department of Housing and Community Development to carry out the duties of this section; and

(ii) have substantial knowledge of the property tax collection process.

The Ombudsman shall:

(1) assist homeowners to understand the process for collection of delinquent taxes;

(2) actively assist homeowners to apply for tax credits, discount programs, and other public benefits that may assist the homeowners to pay delinquent taxes and improve their financial situation;

(3) refer homeowners to legal services, housing counseling, and other social services that may assist homeowners to pay delinquent taxes and improve their financial situation; and

(4) maintain a website that functions as a clearinghouse for information concerning:

(i) the process for collection of delinquent taxes; and

(ii) services and programs that are available to assist homeowners to pay delinquent taxes and improve their financial situation.